Category: Run The Jewels

Run the Jewels, also known by the initialism RTJ, is an American hip hop supergroup formed in 2013 by rapper/producer El-P and rapper Killer Mike. They released their acclaimed debut studio album, Run the Jewels, as a free digital download in 2013. The album was followed by Run the Jewels 2 in 2014, which was also praised by critics. Their third album, Run the Jewels 3, was released digitally on December 24, 2016, while a physical release appeared on January 13, 2017.

Alone, it doesn’t do a lot for me. But as the rest of the albums together, I like the concept they’re going for.

Want to Own on Vinyl?:

Yes, almost bought it the other day!

Final Thoughts:

In Aesop Rock’s Impossible Kid review I stated that he is my favourite rapper still making music, and although I’ll stick to my guns on that statement (cry me a river Lamra-ites) Run The Jewels is my favourite rap group currently making tunes. It’s a great blend of old school break beats that got me into hip-hop in the first place, mixed with more contemporary synth and industrial sounds. Killer Mike and EL-P make an awesome duo with amazing beats, politically charged lyrics, and over the top brags that sometimes don’t really make sense (ex. “I do pushups nude on the edge of cliffs” “I’m the living swipe right I’m Mike I’m a slut.” “I’m fuckin’ magic, in fact I’m a warlock of talk I got a unicorn horn for a STOP.”) They are making showstopping tracks that keep me stoked on Hip-Hop, I’m glad that these old school dudes are making it big, they deserve every bit of acclaim they are receiving. RTJ3 is a great mix of fun, serious, and impressive tracks to keep fans stoked while garnering new followers.